Far away from the hustle and bustle of Cairo and Egypt’s main tourist cities, Siwa Oasis feels like a completely different world. Gone are the constant honking, the street vendors, and the overwhelming crowds—you’ll quickly realize this peaceful desert town operates on a slower, more relaxed rhythm (well, slow by Egyptian standards!).

The first thing that greets you when you arrive is the sight of mudbrick houses, palm groves, and the soft golden glow of desert dust in the air. It’s a place deeply rooted in the Siwi Amazigh culture—an indigenous Berber community that gives Siwa its distinct traditions, language, and way of life.

For years, Siwa was mostly a destination for adventurous travelers looking to explore Egypt’s remote west. But that started to change when social media began showcasing mesmerizing images of people floating effortlessly in bright turquoise salt pools.

These pools—now known as the Siwa Salt Lakes—sparked global curiosity, putting Siwa Oasis firmly on Egypt’s tourist map. Yet, as we discovered during our visit, Siwa is much more than just a few photogenic salt ponds. It’s a tranquil, culturally rich, and naturally beautiful destination that feels both ancient and alive.

Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Siwa Oasis and deciding whether it’s worth the long journey.

Where Is Siwa Oasis?

Siwa Oasis lies in Egypt’s northwestern corner, deep in the Western Desert, which itself forms part of the vast Sahara Desert.

It sits about 60 km from the Libyan border, surrounded by dramatic landscapes such as the Qattara Depression, Diffa Plateau, and the Great Sand Sea.

In terms of distance from major Egyptian cities, Siwa is roughly 750 km west of Cairo (via Marsa Matruh) and around 600 km southwest of Alexandria.

Reaching Siwa takes time—it’s an isolated haven tucked far from Egypt’s mainstream tourist trail—but that’s exactly what makes it so special.

So… Is Siwa Oasis Worth Visiting?

In short—yes, absolutely!
But whether it fits into your itinerary depends on how much time you have and what kind of travel experience you’re looking for.

Siwa lies about 10 hours by road from Cairo, in the opposite direction of the classic Cairo–Luxor–Aswan route. For first-time visitors with limited time, it’s a significant detour.

That said, if you’re drawn to remote landscapes, desert adventures, and authentic cultural encounters, Siwa Oasis is one of the most rewarding places you can visit in Egypt.

Reasons to Visit Siwa Oasis

Siwa has far more to offer than just its famous salt pools. Here are some of the best reasons to make the journey:

  • Float in the Siwa Salt Lakes: These crystal-clear turquoise pools have such high salinity that you’ll float effortlessly—an experience unlike anywhere else in Egypt.
  • Explore the Shali Fortress: Wander through the ruins of this ancient mudbrick citadel that once protected the oasis from invaders.
  • Discover the Temple of the Oracle of Amun: This 26th-dynasty temple is where Alexander the Great was declared the son of a god—a pivotal moment in ancient history.
  • Relax in Cleopatra’s Bath: A natural hot spring said to be where the legendary queen once bathed.
  • Go Sandboarding in the Great Sand Sea: Ride the golden dunes of the Sahara and experience an exhilarating adventure.
  • Experience Siwi Amazigh Culture: Meet locals, sample traditional Siwan food, and admire the town’s unique architecture.
  • Enjoy Magical Sunsets: The views from Dakrour Mountain or over the palm-filled oasis are breathtaking.

Siwa is ideal for travelers seeking calm, authenticity, and connection with nature—an escape from Egypt’s usual chaos.

Final Thoughts

So, is Siwa Oasis worth visiting?
If you’re looking for peace, authenticity, and a glimpse into one of Egypt’s most unique desert cultures—yes, without a doubt.

Siwa offers an unforgettable mix of stunning natural beauty, ancient history, and genuine hospitality. It’s not the easiest place to reach, but sometimes the best destinations are the ones that make you work a little harder to find them.